Rethinking Airport Baggage Systems: Design, Operations & the Future of Automation

In this episode of The BagFather, hosts Marlon van der Meer and Jen Zemba sit down with Ryan E. Gales and Azmat Aulakh from Jenkins/Gales & Martinez, Inc. (JGM) to explore the complexities of airport baggage handling system design and the evolving demands of modern airport operations.

The conversation dives into the real-world challenges of designing and operating baggage systems, from working within tight physical constraints to integrating new technologies with legacy infrastructure. Drawing on their experience across major airport projects, the team shares how JMC evolved from architectural design into a leader in baggage operations and long-term system maintenance, bringing a more holistic, end-to-end perspective to the industry.

This episode also covers:
• Why baggage systems are often introduced too late in terminal design
• The importance of early collaboration; architects, engineers, operations teams
• Reliable performance and high passenger expectations in intense settings
Designing systems adaptable to future technologies and operational changes
• The role of automation and AI in optimising routing and maintenance
• Innovations in tracking, including RFID and IoT-enabled visibility 
Sustainability challenges and energy-efficient systems in reducing environmental impact

Looking ahead, the discussion explores what the future of baggage could look like, from automated delivery and expanded curbside check-in to smarter, more connected systems that reduce friction across the passenger journey.

The four highlight the critical role baggage plays in the overall airport experience and why better design, stronger collaboration, and smarter technology are key to building more efficient, resilient, and passenger-focused operations. As you listen, consider: how can better baggage system design transform the entire airport journey, from check-in to carousel?

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Ryan E. Gales

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryangales/

CEO/Project Manager at JGM

Azmat Aulakh

https://www.linkedin.com/in/azmataulakh/

NYNJ Lead at JGM

Rethinking Airport Baggage Systems: Design, Operations &amp; the Future of Automation
In this episode of The BagFather, hosts Marlon van der Meer and Jen Zemba sit down with Ryan E. Gales and Azmat Aulakh from Jenkins/Gales &amp; Martinez, Inc. (JGM) to explore the complexities of airport baggage handling system design and the evolving demands of modern airport operations.
The conversation dives into the real-world challenges of designing and operating baggage systems, from working within tight physical constraints to integrating new technologies with legacy infrastructure. Drawing on their experience across major airport projects, the team shares how JMC evolved from architectural design into a leader in baggage operations and long-term system maintenance, bringing a more holistic, end-to-end perspective to the industry.
This episode also covers: &bull; Why baggage systems are often introduced too late in terminal design &bull; The importance of early collaboration; architects, engineers, operations teams &bull; Reliable performance and high passenger expectations in intense settings
<ul>
<li>Designing systems adaptable to future technologies and operational changes &bull; The role of automation and AI in optimising routing and maintenance &bull; Innovations in tracking, including RFID and IoT-enabled visibility&nbsp;</li>
<li>Sustainability challenges and energy-efficient systems in reducing environmental impact</li>
</ul>
Looking ahead, the discussion explores what the future of baggage could look like, from automated delivery and expanded curbside check-in to smarter, more connected systems that reduce friction across the passenger journey.
The four highlight the critical role baggage plays in the overall airport experience and why better design, stronger collaboration, and smarter technology are key to building more efficient, resilient, and passenger-focused operations. As you listen, consider: how can better baggage system design transform the entire airport journey, from check-in to carousel?
Follow &amp; Catch Up With Us
Want more from The BagFather? Tap in for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes moments, and everything that doesn&rsquo;t make it into the mic.
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thebagfatherpod/">https://www.instagram.com/thebagfatherpod/</a>
YouTube:<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TheBagfatherPod">https://www.youtube.com/@TheBagfatherPod</a>
Follow and come along for the journey.
Ryan E. Gales
<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryangales/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryangales/</a>
CEO/Project Manager at JGM
Azmat Aulakh
<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/azmataulakh/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/azmataulakh/</a>
NYNJ Lead at JGM

Your all-access pass to the world of baggage, aviation, and innovation.

Step into the fascinating world of baggage and aviation with The Bagfather. This exciting podcast delves into the untold stories, innovative breakthroughs, and behind-the-scenes operations that keep the global travel industry moving.

Hosted by Marlon van der Meer and Jen Zemba, both seasoned professionals with years of experience in the skies and on the ground, The Bagfather uncovers the challenges, triumphs, and transformations shaping how people and their belongings travel across the globe. From industry leaders revolutionising baggage handling to captivating tales from the tarmac, this is a must-listen for aviation enthusiasts, tech lovers, and anyone curious about the hidden logistics of travel.

Because in this industry, every bag tells its own story.  

The Bagfather is a Fresh Air Production for Baggage Media. The producer is Julian Lorkin and the executive producer is Annie Day with editorial support from Caroline Blacklock-Vandy.